harmonica // journals // socks // visual dictionary // pencils // flask

pocket squares // scarf // gloves // bandaids // skincare kit

whiskey stones // wii gum // sweater // sneakers // radio

umbrella // beanie // locket // earmuffs // wrist worms // ballet slippers

mukluks // handkerchief // makeup case //  hair powder

nail polish // perfume // earrings // scarf // lip balm

With the holidays are right around the corner, you’re looking for something special for the beauty addicts in your life … look no further! Here at FIM, we have the definitive list of what to get the girl who would move into the Sephora store if she could.

Something Fun

Bare Escentuals’ bareMinerals Happiness Collection has nine products containing mood-boosting Happybelle, a complex containing a natural plant extract believed to mimic the effect of endorphins and induce a sense of happiness.  The collection is comprised of an all-over face color, two pretty eye colours, a  liner shadow, black mascara, lip gloss, two kinds of brushes and a lovely little clutch.  Even if the Happybelle doesn’t work quite as promised, this all-natural, chem-free collection is sure to increase her very own feel-good chemicals.

bareMinerals Happiness Collection, $54 ($137 Value)

Something Romantic

Scented with notes of vanilla, jasmine, lily of the valley, musk and blackberry, Philosophy’s Falling in Love set contains a 2 oz spray and a 8 oz shampoo, bath and shower gel.  Relaxing in the bath with this fresh floral fragrance will take the edge off holiday season stress for your special lady.

Philosophy Falling in Love set, $50

Something Glam

For the woman who lives life like she’s always attending a movie premiere, put together these delicious tidbits together in a beautifully-wrapped package and you will be privy to her 1000-watt red carpet smile.

Sephora Limited Edition 18K Gold Eyelash Curler, $16

For a tiny tool that will make her makeup bag sparkle, try Sephora’s well-crafted gold-plated eyelash curler.

Juicy Couture, Viva La Juicy - 3.4 oz Eau de Parfum, $85

This Viva La Juicy fragrance by Juicy Couture is rich and sexy, built around wild berries and mandarins, honeysuckle, gardenia and jasmine with touches of amber, caramel, vanilla, sandalwood and praline.  Glamorously packaged in a gold decanter with Juicy charms.

DuWop Private Red, $22

An unusual lipstick that changes colour to adapt to each woman’s chemistry so that she will have her very own perfect and private shade of red.

Something Tech

If your lucky gift recipient is a gadget girl, one of these nifty items may be just the thing to make her new year a very happy one.

T3 PRO Dryer, $119

From one of the best names in the hair-drying business, this pretty-in-pink concoction is tourmaline-infused (which basically means it’s healthier for hair) and promises to dry hair in half the time. Half the time means she will be able to hit that New Year’s Eve party all that much sooner.

Jonathan Beauty Water Shower Purification System, $99

Also in the hair category – because it is just that important – this nifty device basically turns a regular shower into an all-natural spring water ritual.  Which, as it turns out, is pretty good for skin too.

TEMPTU AIRbrush Makeup System, $225

Ah, for the woman who has it all – her very own airbrushing system – like the makeup artist that she has always wanted to have follow her around, but in a package that’s a bit more portable than a person.

Something Green

For the health-conscious and environmentally-conscious woman in your life, try a gift package containing the right set of Pureology products for her hair type. The Pureology line features three innovations: an antifade complex that is an exclusive blend of potent antioxidants and full spectrum sunscreens; shampoos free of colour-stripping sulfates and salts; and a smoothing micro-emulsion technology which penetrates the hair shaft to smooth from within. Full of natural ingredients and organic botanicals that are good for her hair, these products also come in recyclable containers which is good for the planet. And, oh yeah, they smell absolutely divine.

Pureology Hydrate System

The Hydrate System is designed for colour-treated hair and provides deep hydration, nourishment, and colour protection.

Pureology Pure Volume System

The Pure Volume System is designed for colour-treated hair and provides soft volume, moisture, and colour protection.

Pureology Super Smooth System

The Super Smooth System is designed for hard-to-manage colour-treated hair and provides intense smoothing and discipline.

Pureology Essential Repair System

The Essential Repair System is designed for colour-treated hair and provides intense repair, strength, and colour protection.

Pureology NanoWorks System

The NanoWorks System is designed for colour-treated hair in need of dramatically improved condition and provides renewed shine, youthfulness, and colour protection.

Pureology SuperStraight Smoothing System

The SuperStraight Smoothing System by Pureology is designed for colour-treated hair in need of smoothing, straightening, and colour protection.

Have a beautiful holiday season, and please leave a comment if there are any other beauty gifts you think FIM readers should know about!!!

Image of models at start of post courtesy of Elle magazine’s website.  All product images courtesy of featured retailers and Sephora’s website.  All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

I love to give vintage…there is something familiar and nostalgic in giving a previously loved item.  These lovelies from Etsy are high on my gifts for giving list.  And if any just so happened to end up under my tree, I wouldn’t be too saddened either.

Stop by  each seller’s shop by clicking their name below to view each beautiful shop full of gift-worthy goods!

Amber Goblets – Charlie’s Apartment, $29.  Glamorous and enchanting…

Wooden Bird Folk Art – The Relic Trail, $34.  Who doesn’t love a good bird?

Vintage Sail Boats – Sweet Love Vintage, $38.  Swoon-worthy brass sailboats – given new life in this amazing shade of blue.

Olivetti Typewriter – Modera, $319.73.  A noteworthy gift for a someday writer, journalist or  just in love with the color yellow.

Tray - Blue Bell Bazaar, $49.  Would be beautiful to serve cocktails – martinis maybe?

Glam Brooch – BJ Alderman, $10.  Love the delicate yet glam feel of this piece.

2 Drawer Filing Cabinet – Schmintage, $50.  Recipe holder, business card organizer, what new life will this wonder-item find?

Mercury Glass Bottle – Satisfind, $75/ each.  Absolutely stunning in repeat…but one will do just as well!

Vintage First Aid Kit – Bella Lulu, $32.50.  I’m imagining this in my office…storing all of my papermate pencils, sharpies, and gel pens.  Yes, I’m a writing nerd.

Vintage Gas Station Sign – 26 Olive Street, $35.  Found gas station sign would be lovely in a dining room or kitchen.

Cosmetic Case - Post Road Vintage, $28.50.  Love the clean lines and grey color, ideal for jewelry or corralling all of those pesky remotes!

Globe – Traci Nicole, $35.  Beautiful muted colors – a great family heirloom.

More gift guides to come next week!  Won’t you drop by again?

xoxo, jill.

The holidays are approaching fast and if you’re like us, you’re scouring stores and retail sites to find the best gifts for special people in your life. This month we’re going to feature gift guides to help you with your shopping lists. In Holiday Gift Guide #1 we’re featuring gifts for your loved ones. Whether for your mom, dad, friend, sibling or significant other, these items are sure to please.
Gifts for Her
1. Wending Gloves, Anthropologie: These soft angora, wool and nylon gloves are elegantly detailed with coiled buds. And, like everything else in Anthropologie, they’ll make any girl feel more girlie.
2. Tarte Crown Jewels Lipgloss Multi-gift Set, Sephora: How great is this! This gift set from Sephora has three sets of five Tarte lip glosses. So not only can you give a couple away as gifts, you can also keep one for yourself! And did we mention it’s only $39?
3. Satin Jewelry Traveler, J Crew: This jewelry traveler is so elegant that it looks like a purse. With three zipper compartments, two removable straps and a deep pocket there is more than enough room to keep jewelry in tact while traveling.

Gifts for Him
4. Vizio 42″ TV LCD HDTV, Target: Every guy loves a big TV. If size or budget is a big concern, this 42″ is large enough to show a crisp, high-def picture without breaking the bank too much.
5. Cashmere V-Neck Sweater, Martin + Osa: A staple in any guy’s closet, the v-neck is always a good pick. Made in cashmere, it will not only be soft, but it will also be war.m without being too bulky.
6. Cuff Link Display Case, Red Envelope: Does that special guy in your life have more than a few snazzy cuff links without a special place of their own? This classy Cuff Link Display Case is a great place to put them. You can even get it engraved with his initials.

Gifts for Anyone
7. Flip Video MinoHD Camcorder, Best Buy: Flip video cameras make it fast and easy to capture and upload videos. Its small size and sleek design make them easy to carry around too.  This particular flip captures up to 60 minutes of high definition video and costs right under $200.
8. Kindle, Amazon: If you’re buying a gift for an avid reader who doesn’t already have a, e-reader, then this is definitely the gift to buy. It’s lightweight, holds up to 1,500 books, and since it uses 3G wireless technology, books can be downloaded wirelessly in less than a minute.
9. Breville Ikon Panini Press, Williams-Sonoma: Give the gift of making scrumptious panini at home with this panini press. To make it even better, its adjustable heat settings make it easy to also make grilled meat and veggies.

Make “Bought in AP” – or within a few blocks of it – your new holiday mantra with these 20 fabulous gifts for $20 or less…

1.  One-of-a-kind, hand-blown holiday ornaments in brilliant swirled reds, blues, lavenders and oranges.  $20, Hot Sand

2.  Draft Stop, filled with fir needles, fills a home with the relaxing scent of winter while blocking a drafty door or window sill.  $18, Comfort Zone, (Ocean Grove)

3.  “Oh Snap” mousetrap cutting board with stainless steel cheese slicer.  $20, Flying Saucers

4.  “I’m saving up for plastic surgery” tin piggy bank by Blue Q.  $9, Style Rocket

5.  Maison Bouche chocolate bars [photo left] are “the bomb” according to store owner Michael Buess.  The best-selling flavor is Fleur DeSel, milk chocolate with sea salt.  $7, Bodega Shoppe

6.  Glittering and “decked out” Swan Gift Baskets.  “The swan is the unofficial mascot of Asbury Park,” said Michael Buess, who glitters and adorns the 24-inch festive fowl.  $18, Bodega Shoppe

7.  Fair trade Batik aprons handmade in Ghana feature lovely nature-inspired prints in four colors.  $15, Organic Style

8.  The 2010 Asbury Park Firefighter Calendar [photo right].  Proceeds benefit the Fire Department Building Fund and ArtsCAP.  $15, Shelter Home, Flying Saucers, ArtsCAP.

9.  Stunning three-piece set of salt and pepper shaker and mustard pot from Heaven.  The store features a number of collector-worthy sets including: sterling silver, silverplate, Lustreware and ceramic in all shapes and sizes.

Two of my favorites sets are the silverplate Georgian-style and the brass with mother-of-pearl embellishments.  Sets from $20, Heaven

10.  Sweater-tights for women.  “Everyone who buys them loves them,” said the salesgirl at Stacy Gemma.  “They are slimming and warm” and come in four colors.  $20, Stacy Gemma

11.  “Smell My Nuts” 65% soy, sootless candle - that smells like banana bread.  $7, Master Bath Boutique in the Arcade

12.  Elegant jewelry designed and made by a co-op of women in Afghanistan.  “It’s taken more than a year for the government there to allow the jewelry out of the country and I am so happy to have it here,” said Nancy Ehrlich, owner, Organic Style – the fabulous fair trade store on Cookman Avenue.  The original designs of green glass flowers, brown Boxite and Camelian bead accents is modern and stylish for your friends and life-changing for the Afghani women.  $15, Organic Style 

13.  Hand puppet theatre.  The joy possibilities are endless with Chef Alfedo Al Dente, Ballerina Tina Prima, Cowgirl Sally Sidesaddle and the 15 other cartoon-like felt puppets by Melisa & Doug Puppets [photo left].  $19.99, Comfort Zone, (Ocean Grove)

14.  Japanese Piperoid Paper Robots and friend – named Antonio and Syrup or Shishitaro and Komajiro - look like you went to the MOMA to holiday shop but it’s our secret you went to Shelter Home for these adorable, cool and crafty paper creations.  $15, Shelter Home

15.  Wool “Brown Bear” winter hat handmade in the Himalayas.  Also comes in Tiger, Penguin, Owl, Cat and Pig styles.  $14, The Emporium (Ocean Grove)

16.  The best freshly roasted in Asbury Park coffee from Asbury Roastery is always a welcome gift.  One pound of the famous “hearty” Holiday Blend.  $10, Asbury Roastery

17.  Table saw-shaped cake, bread and lettuce slicer made of sharp plastic.  $13, Flying Saucers

18.  The gift of a “Couples Night Out” with a pair of movie passes to one of The Showroom’s fantastic screenings.  I frequently say that the theatre is the “best of all worlds – comfy like your living room, fancy-pants like your best friend’s media room and exciting like a New York art-house theatre’ room.”  $16 for two tickets, The Showroom on Cookman Avenue

19.  Organic loose leaf cranberry tea gift boxes.  From $7, Asbury Roastery

20.  Fabulous home accessory “finds” – including items from Tiffany & Co., Wedgewood (including Queen Elizabeth Coronation pattern dinnerware from 1953) Rosewood, Fire King and much more.  $.10 and higher.  Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore thrift store on Third Avenue

PLUS:  My absolute favorite kitchen tool – it makes preparing salads ultra simple and reinvented peeling potatoes, carrots, asparagus and cucumbers for me.  It is the Swissmar Peeler.  Any chef on your list will love you for years to come if you gift them with this peeler.  The gift doesn’t have a lot of “wow” but the first time the recipient uses it they will say “Ooooooo.”  It is super-sharp (and stays that way), ergonomically designed and pretty.  $4, Johnson’s Restaurant Supply (Neptune)

Company’s product description:  The Swissmar Stainless Steel Peeler with a straight blade is an indispensable tool to have in your kitchen. The integrated side cutter is designed for removing potato eyes or blemishes, or to cut decorative grooves into fruits and vegetables.  The harp-shaped handle is designed for easier, less stressful peeling.  The perpendicular cutting edge allows for a more natural, up and down peeling motion.

Next week: socially conscience gifting and local luxe gifts to splurge or fantasize about.  Santa, Baby!

Richard@TheBPlot.com

THEBPLOT = THE AREA’S MOST-READ FEATURES SITE

Zombies! Ninjas! Robots! Yay!… I mean, oh no…*cough*

Well here it is, the second gift guide in my Christmas count down. This one what basically inspired by Pride, Prejudice, and Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith who made some minor adjustments to Jane Austen’s classic tale. I recommended the book to my brother, and after reading it the first thing he said was “You didn’t tell me there were ninjas too!”. One of us joked that all it needed was robots and it would be one of the epic-est retelling ever.

Featured in this gift guide are the etsians:

horrobelle, DeadlyPretty, tinaseamonster, MayMayhem, IndyGrrrlProductions, MizzDuality, TheBubblingCauldron, cuddleINC, marelleshop, NeedleNoodles, DanBoisGraphics, GardenGwyn, auntifranni, zerick, ButtonsForBreakfast, wishwithme, evieheartsmilo, PenelopePlace, lattegrande, loverlyink, CardsBetweenFriends, aDivineAdornment, ShutYourButton, Pagey, mybellalove, AmyGaines, kendraha, hippyofdoom, mamarunswithscissors, and foldedpigs

You should check out their shops or zombie ninja robots with eat your brains with electronic throwing stars O_o.

Tomorrow’s guide: It’s a Steampunk Christmas

I’d like to give a shout out to a cool website that is currently featuring my recycled map stationery in their holiday gift guide: Green Upgrader! I am really psyched to be included in the group of eco-friendly gift ideas that they’ve assembled. This is a super cool site, and handmade (especially eco-friendly) gifts are the “in” thing this year. And hopefully every year!

My recycled map stationery can be purchased here!

It’s really very affordable, and you can feel good about buying a product that supports sustainability and an independent artisan. Perfect for your favorite traveller or eco-minded pal.

Growing up my parents never had to encourage us to write our letters to Santa. We were broke all the time, and so there was always stuff my friends had that I desperately wanted (read: an Easy Bake Oven*). As I grew up, my lists became shorter and more expensive, and while my parents were still broke, they always managed to get at least one thing from the list. Once I started working (at 15), my Christmas lists grew even shorter – I didn’t need my parents to buy me what I wanted, that’s what my job was for. In college, I stopped writing lists and my mom started just buying random stuff she thought I’d like. It’s a good thing she knows me so well and was able to match my needs and wants as equally well. Now-a-days Mom emails me and asks for a short list so that she can get me what I need rather than what she thinks I might want. She does the same with my little sister.

Two years ago my sister never submitted her list … so my mom bought her things she thought she’d like. Picky Little Sister was disappointed at Christmas when she got weird things that she didn’t really need or want, but because she never gave Mom a list, she got what Mom could think of. She pouted like she was 8, even though she was 21 that year. She explicitly told my Mom, in front of everyone, that Christmas; “all I got were the sucky gifts!” Since then, my family has held the joke that “no list equals sucky gifts”.

For my 99th post here (yeah, 99 posts … crazy!) I thought I’d create my Christmas list so that when Mom does request a list, I have stuff ready to go instead of giving her “tights, a lined journal, postage stamps” like I did last year. (I got six pair of tights, three new journals and a roll of stamps. My mom is good like that.)

As I started making my list this year, I totally sensed a theme …

• An inspired necklace from Lisa Leonard Designs :: I specifically like Be Still necklace (yes, even though it has a bird on it!) and the sterling ring (which I’d put ad astra per aspera on)
• Tiny Token’s Design has some gorgeous metal-work that drew me in: the Wish necklace, Stars and Bzzzzzz but I wish they came in the “dangly” style like the Dragonfly ones do
• LuLu Bug Jewelery is also some amazing metal work that I am coveting: like the Big Dandelion necklace, and this GORGEOUS Dream Sweetly necklace
• Alicia Instanbul makes some pretty word stamped necklaces: I know I’m lucky, and need to be reminded to be still every once in a while
• Even Amazon has a beautiful “OMG I LOVE THAT NECKLACE” dragonfly medallion
• Sweet Bella Cards makes the stationary geek in me a happy one: Dandelions, Blowing Daisies, and the Raspberry Vine just mean I’d  need to add postage stamps to my list
• Wicked Pen’s dragonfly linen notes are bound to get me to write to my Gramps, really!
• LUSH carries a million things I’d love: from bath bombs (Sex Bomb, Vanilla Fountain, Honey Bee, Rainbow Worrier, Silver Cloud) to bubble bars (Two Timing Tart, Christmas Kisses) to the massage bars (Wiccy Magic Muscles, Nutts)
• I’m an avid reader but have yet to justify buying myself a Kindle … but I want … oh how I want
• SIGG has always made the best looking water bottles out there, and I love the pink one I have, but I could always use more since I’m thinking about getting rid of my ancient Nalgene bottles
• These rings are fun, but that’d mean I’d have to take off my silver one: Kira’s Touch Dodger Blue, Fluffington’s happy cup of tea ring kills me with cuteness, Love Heals but my absolute favorite has to be PatrickIrlaJewelry’s Hydrangea Blossom Ring (gorgeousness in ring form)

After posting this entry and then checking out MORE Etsy sites, I have a few more things to add to the list!

• ScarletBeautiful’s photo prints are amazingly beautiful: Love through the Viewfinder, and Ranuculus Flower through the Viewfinder (my favorite flower, EVER!)
• PeggySue1464’s And Then There Were Two painting is beautiful
• Little Glass House’s Fire & Sky photograph reminds me of a beautiful fall day while We Remember I cheers me up
• Patty A Baker paints a beautiful Autumn Moonrise VI
• Essentially ALL of the work at Paper Moth makes me smile. I especially like the Dandelion stuff.

Virtual Christmas shopping is fun!

• Metal basket shelf from Wisteria
• Roost bronze twig jewelry stand from Velocity
• Light switch rack from the MOMA store

Even though I’m not a “stuff” person, I definitely sensed a theme in creating this list, and I spent MUCH too much time online browsing some fabulous stores. What are your favorite stores for pretties?

~**~

*When I would buy gifts for the tags on the tree at the mall, or for our work Christmas gift-giving thing, I would ALWAYS buy a young girl an Easy Bake Oven and like 8 refills for the cakes. I always wanted one but never got one, and so giving them to girls (for five years in a row!) was always super-exciting for me.

Instant Photo Album $10 - urbanoutfitters.com

What better way to kick off the gift giving season than with a gift guide for myself? :) After the jump, a rundown of what I’m hoping to find under the tree (or what “santa” bought me a little early…).

(And if you’re looking for gift ideas for a gal with the same sequin, wine, grey sweater and Polaroid tendencies as me, you’re in luck!)

Don't know what to get this girl? We'll help you out!

We all have that friend. You know the one who’s all “thanks but no thanks on the holiday cookies – I’m totally cool eating this yummy air.” The one with so much self-discipline she woke up the morning after Halloween, threw her slutty bumble bee costume aside and went for a 7 mile run. The one who is always telling you about the latest workout she is into, health book she is reading or cleanse she is trying.  And, of course, the one who makes you think, “I wish I could be a bit more like her,” as you delve into your giant cookie while watching this week’s episode of the Real Housewives for the FOURTH time.

Yes, we all have that friend and while sometimes you wish you could just give her a big box of cookies for the holidays, there are just a few things she’d appreciate a whole lot more. But what can you get her that will make her happy without packing on the pounds? Try a few of these on for size:

A Blueprint Cleanse: This 1-5 day cleanse comes in 3 different levels so it’s great for the friend who always talks about wanting to try one or the health freak who cleanses 3 times a year. I tried this and LOVED how it made me feel. A great gift to give to your health-freak friends who would totally love the idea of a post holiday cleanse. (It’s not cheap, so consider getting a group of friends together for this one.)

Master Your Metabolism: From our pal Jillian Michaels of the Biggest Loser, this book breaks down what we are doing wrong and how to fix it so we can stay fit, healthy and feeling great. Jillian knows it all so even health freaks can learn something new from this jam-packed book of information.

Daily Food Diary: This unique little black book will help her keep track of all the grabs here, handfuls there and healthy meals so she can stay on track with that healthy eating.

Thumbhole half-zip hoodie: She’s gonna need something warm to wear post-workout or on that 3-mile run. This adorable hoodie will keep her hands warm but fingers accessible (for finding more Miley on her iPod). And it’s just plain cute. She could wear it anywhere.

Exhale Core Fusion DVDs: Core Fusion is my most favorite workout ever. I don’t know how it works, but my butt burns for days (yes, DAYS) after. The classes get pretty pricey, but now everyone can do it from the comfort of their own dorm room. Awesome. You can get the total pack, but if that’s out of your price rage you can get each DVD for $15 a pop. (And if you’re only getting one, I’d go with body sculpt.)

Fitted Low-rise Yoga Pant: Everyone needs a pair of yoga pants. This particular pair is adorable at an even more adorable price.

Nike Weighted Jump Rope: The best way to get a cardio workout in without having to walk to the gym when its -20 degrees (I’m talking to you, University of Wisconsin).

Nike Running Arm Wallet/Phone Case:  The perfect arm accessory (armcessory?) for any girl who is addicted to both running and her Blackberry.

Yoga mat bag and gym bag: Whether she’s into yoga or the gym these two bags are ADORABLE and fuctional. And let’s be real:  I’ve never met a girl who doesn’t love Lululemon!

Lululemon Slipless Headband: It’s The best workout head band EVER.

Being single over the holidays is amazing. In these hard economic times think of all the cash you will be saving!! (Spend it on a very glittery ensemble for New Years, the one day of the year I believe glitter to not be tacky).

But what if you just started dating someone new? How do you handle the conundrum of gift giving to someone you may have only been dating a month?

My favorite website for men is theartofmanliness.com. I believe every good man should read this, and live this lifestyle. If only all men were Don Draper the world would be a better place.

You sir, are both a gentlemen, and a scholar.

Their gift guide is filled with everything manly, not frilly and there is something on there any man would enjoy. And you single ladies? Check it out for your dad, grandpa, brother or non-sexual life partner.  From there list I put together a package for a Marine friend serving overseas filled with artisan meat snacks, movies, books, fake mustaches and an old school leather football. Men. Grunt.

So, that’s it for the gift guide today, tomorrow look for more expensive gifts(think $30 and under).

Good Morning my loves!

Well, we are in the month of December as of yesterday- can you believe it?!? Where has the rest of the year went? My goodness. My nephew is going to be 1 years old in a month and I still remember the day that he was born like it was yesterday. Shoutouts to my super cute nephew Zavier and my gorgeous niece Lishel. I love those 2 more than anything, it’s crazy!

Anyway with Christmas steadily approaching that means that people are going to feel forced to buy gifts for any and everyone. I don’t know about you, but times are rough and I’m not exactly “ballin” like Jay-Z. With Kris Kringle gift exchanges and just buying gifts for family and friends, things can become pretty pricey so I thought I’d drop a few gift ideas here and there to help out those that are struggling to think of a good gift.

1. For the unfussy female.

• Nailpolish package.

I'm salivating at the mouth

There is one thing that my friends know about me, I LOVE NAILPOLISH. It may seem stupid, but it really makes me happy doing my nails and having a fresh polish on. I don’t go to the nail salon, because everything they do there I do it myself (money saver). Those that know me, know I always have polish on (if I don’t, something must have happened). My favorites are O.P.I and China Glaze but I don’t discriminate against other brands. If I love the color, I can get down with it. This may not seem like alot but for someone that’s unfussy and flexible, they will totally appreciate this.

It’s that time of year again. And rather than try to answer thousands of e-mails separately with my gift picks, I’m going to do it right here in this blog post. I will try to work out something next week with mid-range items. For now, here’s the dream guide…

Point & Shoot

Canon Powershot G11

Canon PowerShot G11 is geared towards a more serious photographer who wants a pocket camera that has some of the same features as a DSLR without the size.

The G11 comes with a built-in 28-140mm equivalent 5x zoom, with an f/2.8-4.5 maximum aperture range and optical image stabilization. It offers a sturdy metal body with a comfortable heft and a 2.8″, high resolution, fully articulated LCD screen. Pros will also appreciate the dedicated TTL hotshoe, 1/2000 flash-sync speed, and RAW capabilities. When people ask me about buying a sub-$500 camera, this is it.

Third – Party Lens

Lensbaby Composer & Accessories

I love me some Lensbaby. For relatively little money, you can buy a lens that really should be thought more of like a lens system. You can buy and add on a super wide adapter, a soft portrait lens, a circular fisheye lens and more.

Not only is this stuff cool, it’s one of the few pieces of gear that I can safely say will make the photographer in your life more creative. Available in a variety of mounts.

Lensbaby The Composer for Nikon F mount Digital SLR Cameras

Lensbaby The Composer for Canon EF mount Digital SLR Cameras

And don’t forget these must-have Lensbaby accessories that round out the Lensbaby lineup. The new fisheye and soft focus optic could easily appear on several lists.

Lensbaby .42X Super Wide Angle Accessory Lens (Black)

Lensbabies LBOFE Fisheye Optic for Lensbabies Composer Lenses

Lensbabies LBOSF Soft Focus Optic for Optic Swap System for Lensbabies Composer, Muse and Control Freak

(NOTE: Lensbaby is a sponsor of Photofocus. I’ve been using their product since BEFORE they were a sponsor and have no problem including them on this list.)

DSLR for Video

Canon 7D

Canon EOS 7D BODY ONLY

I’ve tried every Canon and Nikon DSLR that shoots video. In my opinion, the 7D does the best job for the money of capturing video. It shoots 1080p 24FPS and gives the photographer/videographer complete control of important tools like focus, depth-of-field and shutter speed.

Shooting this camera at 24FPS at 1/50th of a second I have been able to achieve a film-like quality that dazzles my friends who own and operate high-end video gear costing 10 times as much.

The 7D is a capable stills camera as well.

DLSRs

Nikon D300s BODY ONLY

The Nikon D300s is my choice for pro-sumer DSLR where video isn’t important. While the D300s does shoot video, it’s not up to the quality of the Canon 7D’s video. But as a stills camera, this unit rocks. I like the Canon 7D for still photos as well, but wanted to put a Nikon on the list in this price range for those who have Nikon glass.

The 12.3 MP sensor offers enough resolution to make large prints but still offers low-noise images. The LCD is a thing to behold. Auto-focus is amazing. The camera shoots at 7-fps right out of the box, has dual memory card slots and many other features you only typically find on the high-end, pro bodies.

Nikon D3s BODY ONLY

For those of you who want the very best, my choice is the new Nikon D3s. This is simply one of the best cameras ever made. The low-light performance on this unit is downright scary. ISO 6400 is VERY usable! Again, I am not so impressed with the camera’s video mode, but every single other function on the D3s is state-of-the-art and untouchable by any other DSLR. Nikon’s autofocus is currently the best in the business. It’s low-noise capability is unsurpassed. The build quality, metering and everything else about this camera screams QUALITY. It’s not cheap at $5200 but it’s worth it.

This new version offers dynamic integrated dust reduction system and a larger image buffer.

Canon Glass

Canon EF 14mm f/2.8L II USM Ultra-Wide Angle Lens

I used to own this lens when I was a Canon still shooter. I rented it the other day for a video project and remembered how sweet it really is. It’s nearly impossible to go this wide without distortion, but Canon’s engineers figured out a way to make it happen with this rectilinear corrected, distortion-free lens providing a 114-degree diagonal angle of view. It’s great for street, landscape or architectural photographers shooting with a full-frame body.

Nikon Glass

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S NIKKOR Lens

If you know a Nikon shooter, this lens is what they want for the holidays. They want it badly. They dream of it nightly. It’s Nikon’s newest pro-lens. It has everything. It’s sharp, has the latest Vibration Reduction technology and solves the vignetting problem present in the old 70-200 when used on a full-frame sensor camera. It offers the new Nano-Crystal coating, SW motor, internal focusing; you name it – it has it. My new favorite Nikon lens.

Strobe

Elinchrom Ranger Quadra Kit

At $2200 this is not an inexpensive lighting solution, but if you need portable power that dwarfs what’s available from top-of-the-line flash heads, the Ranger Quadra is for you. I played with one of these babies at Photoshop World in Vegas this year and was blown away by their power, ease-of-use, portability and light output. There are a variety of light modifiers available to compliment the kit.

As someone who is in love with board and card games of all kinds and has fond memories of playing them as a kid, I couldn’t wait to play games with my kids.

We first bought Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders when Grace was 2. What a disaster. She couldn’t sit still for more than 10 seconds and had no interest in doing anything but throwing the cards around. Now, at age 5, she has the patience for most games but tends to make up her own rules or even cheat sometimes. And some parts of some games she still can’t comprehend. But more and more, we are enjoying playing with her.

Just a few of our kids' games. (We save space by ditching the original boxes.)

I put together this guide in hopes of saving some of you the frustrations I have faced over the past few years. I’ve reviewed all the games we own. They are listed by the age *I* recommend them for. You’ll be surprised to see where Candy Land falls! The stars I have given it are out of 5 and basically indicate whether I would buy it again for the age at which I have it listed. The link is to the best price I found online though most of these can be bought at many online and physical retailers.

(When I originally wrote this post, before Blogger ate it, I included what the manufacturer said about the game and what age it recommended the game for but it was all kind of cheesy and boring. If you want to know, it’s available in a 2-second search on Google. Sometimes Usually less is more. Also, let me know if any of these links are bad. I wasn’t as diligent the second time through.)

Playing Cranium Hullabaloo

Cranium Hullabaloo
Age: 2-6
I say: This game is fabulous. It’s nice to have a game that requires little to no adult help, even for toddlers. And it’s super fun to watch them “spin to a circle” or “hop to an animal.” A winner is declared often enough to hold their interest for a long time.
Grace says: I like that you get to do a dance when you win.
5 stars

Memory
Age: 3+
I say: This game is a classic and can be challenging even for an adult if you use enough cards. It comes in many versions, including the original listed in the link. We have a Backyardigans version, and the four different colored backgrounds makes it easy to pull out some cards for a shorter/easier game. I’m not sure if this is true of all versions. Or if they seem to have short attention spans at the moment, we put out even fewer cards. With Connor, we put a bunch of the cards out face-up and just have him look for matches. Another fun memory game that requires a little less set-up but isn’t customizable is Husker Du.
Grace says: I like that you get to go again when you get two matches and you don’t get to go again when you don’t get matches.
5 stars

Cuties and Cooties

Cootie
Age: 3-6
I say: This game stinks. It’s frustrating for kids to go through several turn where they don’t roll the number they need. And of all the games here, it’s the most boring for adults. If the kids like the little bugs (and they are kind of cute and have varied parts, unlike when I was a kid), just have them put them together and play with them. Another drawback, even as a toy vs. a game: Lots of little parts to lose or choke on.
Grace says: I like that there is a dice and it has 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 6 is for legs and 5 is for … I forgot.
2 stars

Hi Ho Cherry-O
Age: 3-6
I say: This is a quick, easy game that’s especially great for early counters. Connor still makes a complete mess of all the tiny cherries in this game but Grace mastered it as an older 3-year-old. She didn’t even balk at the idea of sometimes having to put cherries back on the tree. Just watch out for all those small parts. (Tip: if you have an older version with the long stems that are easily knocked over, put them in the board upside down.)
Grace says: I like spinning the spinner and sometimes you have to put cherries back if you get a dog or bird.
4 stars

Animals Animals Color Bingo
Age: 4+
I say: This game combines bingo with a board game. And it features great animal illustrations by Eric Carle. There are suggestions in the rules for ways to make the game harder or to match what your kids are learning, such as colors or addition. Connor “plays” this game with us too without wreaking any havoc on it.
Grace says: I like filling up the boxes and then when they are full, you get to put on the caterpillars. (I wish I could spell caterpillar how she says it because it’s so dang cute.)
4 stars

Candy Land
Age: 4-6
I say: Classic beginner game, right? Maybe it depends on the kid. It wasn’t until recently that Grace played it correctly and didn’t whine about not being in the lead. Trying to play with Connor is impossible. He messes up cards, knocks the pieces off the board and really has no clue what the point is.
Grace says: I like that there’s Dora, Diego, Boots, Backpack and Map. And if you get a treat card, like candy or ice cream, you go to it. And if you’re before it, you have to go back to it.
3 stars

Chutes and Ladders
Age: 4-6
I say: Similar to Candy Land, this was an early purchase because I remember loving it as a kid. And similar to Candy Land, Grace had no patience for following the track or the rules until recently. Even now, she does not get the reward/consequence concept of the game and gets confused about which direction to go on the board. I think, however, with more patience on my part, both of these could be good learning opportunities for her.
Grace says: I like going up the ladders and down the slides.
3 stars

Connect Four
Age: 4+
I say: Grace LOVES tic tac toe and this is like the bigger, better version. It’s fun to see her learning to use strategy and prompting her to do so. And the adult playing with can easily alter their competence level to let the child win enough to keep them from getting discouraged. Heck, this game is even fun for two adults to play on occasion. And sometimes Grace and Connor just sit together and make patterns on the board.
Grace says: I like sliding the thing and making them all fall. And there’s red ones and black ones.
5 stars

Uno
Age: 4+
I say: We have/like the original deck of Uno cards, though Grace has played and liked the Attack version as well. This is one of the few games that Grace mastered much younger than the recommended age. She can play on her own with just a little help on what the special cards mean. I even saw my father-in-law playing with Connor last weekend, and with a little bending complete disregard of the rules, it worked great.
Grace says: I like matching numbers and colors.
5 stars

Yahtzee Junior
Age: 4-6
I say: We haven’t played this a lot because it’s a recent purchase but we enjoy it. I think this is one of the few cases where the character version is better than the non-character because it might be boring for kids if it were just numbers. Luckily, there are a bazillion character versions to meet your kids’ tastes. Here’s a more thorough review, including how it differs from the adult version. I haven’t tried it with Connor yet but I don’t see him getting the point.
Grace says she likes it but declined further comment.
4 stars

Tri-Ominoes for Kids
Age: 5+
I say: The adult version of this is one of Mark’s favorite games. The kids’ version is fun because it has animal shapes in addition to the numbers. So far, Grace is more interested in making shapes or making up her own game than in playing by the rules. This is true of regular dominoes as well. But she has SO much fun doing it that it doesn’t bother me. And for the most part, she tolerates Connor adding to her shapes as well.
Grace says: I like that you can make funny shapes. And there are cows and pigs and sheeps.
5 stars

Camp

Camp
Age: 5+
I say: This is by far my favorite “kid” game we own and I hope the manufacturer comes out with more products. There are four levels of trivia questions that keep all ages interested and challenged and an element of luck that helps level the playing field without annoying those of us who don’t care for luck games. There’s also a booster pack if you play enough to memorize all the cards
Grace says: I like that sometimes I win and sometimes I don’t. (I found this an odd reason to like the game since this is true of pretty much every game we have but oh well.)
5 stars. I’d give it more if I could.

We also have a Disney Princess game box. I think it came from Target but I can’t find it online. An item like this is good for kids about 4 and up who don’t have a lot of other games. It includes:

Princess dominoes

• Checkers (Grace gets frustrated that she’s not good at this but still likes to play)
• Bingo (We have a lot of fun with this)
• A mechanized fishing game (These are kind of hard but both kids love them)
• Old Maid (Too hard for little hands to hold all those cards)
• Go Fish (A favorite here)
• Tic Tac Toe (OK, that’s dumb. Get a pencil and paper)
• Dominoes (See Tri-Ominoes blurb for what we do with these)

Have kids older than 5? This is a great post about playing games, how to get them on the cheap and suggestions of games for slightly older children. This post also lists games that look to be good for early elementary age children.

Here’s a funny but true video about playing games with kids – keeping a balance between teaching them how to play and still having fun. Thanks to Ben at Windmill Fighter for the link.

What do you think about the games I listed? Am I off my rocker for hating on some kid classics? Do you know of any games we should try? Seen any posts/lists/reviews worth sharing? Fill up that comment box. I hope to do a follow-up post after Christmas with leads from readers and reviews on any games we receive as gifts.

Is your giftee not a gamer?  Well, Rune Of Red STILL has something for you!

Here are my top picks, VIA ThinkGeek, that I think your giftee might like

For the ‘Techie’:

The Monkey Cable Organizer

This lil’ monkey will make sure your cables won’t be going anywhere

Priced at $4.99.

USB Rocket Launcher

This Rocket Launcher is…just awesome.  It runs on USB, what more do I need to say?

Oh, it works on windows 2000/xp/vista (not sure about Windows 7).

This is priced at $22.99.

Gifts for the Outdoor Geek:

The 6-in-1 Utili-Key

Looks like a normal key, doesn’t it?

It’s actually:

Two (2) Knives

Three (3) Screwdrivers

One (1) Bottle Opener

And it has a lifetime warranty.

This is priced at $9.99.

Freeloader Pro Solar Charger

Ever want to charge up your portable device (dvd player, cell phone, etc.) but didn’t have an extra power source nearby?

Well, if it’s sunny where you are (Most of the time not here, but yeah) then this is for you!

Priced at $79.99

Gifts for the ‘Mad Scientist’:

Aperture Labs Coffee Mug

I hear it goes great with cake…

Priced at $12.99

Electronic Gadgets for the Evil Genius

This book contains 28 different do-it-yourself projects for the ‘evil genius’.

Price is $19.99

Rune Of Red’s Personal Favorites:

The Book of Secrets

Want to know amazing secrets?  Can’t tell you, it’s a secret.

Priced at $5.99

‘Whiskey Stones’

Ice is so 2009.

Whiskey stones stay colder longer than ice.

Pack of 8 in a bag.

Priced at $19.99

XL LED Binary Clock

Stylish, yet intelligent.

Priced at 49.99

To say the least, I’m overwhelmed by gift guides this time of year. But that’s no reason not to make one myself…right??  I have a whole slew of gifts to give this year, including two gift exchange-ees??, a boyfriend, and a dog (yes, a dog).  And all this on a budget, mind you! So I figured I’d break-it-on-down to a week full of gift ideas to kick-start the blog.  And if you can’t wait until tomorrow, here are a few of my favorite gift-guides and sources:

• For the boy toy (and boys who like toys): Uncrate …tons of ideas that break the bank, plus tons that don’t, but aren’t as much fun.
• For your best friend, you know, the die-hard romantic, ultra-girly one: Anthropologie … fill out their questionnaire and they generate unique and girly gift ideas, or Etsy, where you’ll find handmade gifts, or ModCloth, where you can shop by personality.
• For the friend who won’t put down this month’s People: Intuition or Piperlime … you can shop by celebrity, or skim through special selections by celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe. Or try WhoWhatWear …you’ll find stylish gifts based on celeb style.
• For the friend that can’t stop buying tea towels, vintage coffee tables, and other home related goods: Design*Sponge …she breaks the gifts down by price AND has an awesome gift guide for guys-something for everyone.

It may just be me, but I feel like the holidays really snuck up on me this year. I’m going to blame it on a late Thanksgiving, but whatever the reason I’ve found gift guides to be extremely helpful this year. For that reason, I’m putting a Jewelry Gift Guide together to ease your holiday shopping. Simply find the person you’re shopping for and read through my list of gift ideas in all price ranges.

Wife

• Diamond Studs – Available in many shapes and sizes, you’re sure to find a pair that will fit your budget. $200 and up
• Diamond Tennis Bracelet – There are stunning all-diamond styles or diamonds mixed with other gemstones like sapphires and rubies.  If you don’t want to spend a lot, go for a well-made bracelet with less diamonds, perhaps one diamond link to every two gold links, rather than a cheaply-made bracelet with more and/or larger diamonds. $1,000 and up
• Lorenzo Jewelry – This line consists of silver and 18k-yellow gold colored-gemstone jewelry, and especially stunning this year are designs with green amethyst and varying shades of citrine. $250 to $600
• Rainbow Sapphire – Beautiful bracelets, rings, pendants and earrings in both modern and traditional designs stunningly display the sapphires in a full range of color. $450 and up

Mother

• Loving Family Pendant –  In sterling silver or 14k yellow gold, these come in lots of family arrangements like one parent and two children, two parents and three children, etc. $40 to $200
• Watch — Seiko has many beautiful diamond watches and Citizen’s Eco Drive technology means she’ll never have to replace the battery in her watch. $120 to $800
• Birthstone Pendants or Earrings — If she already has her own birthstone, get jewelry that displays her children’s birthstones. If she has more than one child, this gives you future gift ideas because you can get one pendant this year, another for her birthday, matching earrings next Christmas, etc. $150 and up depending on birthstone

Girlfriend

• Hot Diamonds – Great sterling silver collections featuring rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets, each with at least one genuine diamond. $100 to $550
• Elle – Modern sterling silver designs each featuring a uniquely-placed ruby.$100 to $400
• Pearls – From a single drop Tahitian pendant to a strand of white akoyas or a 6-foot multi-colored freshwater strand, there are pearls for every occasion. $100 and up

Sister

• Lorenzo Jewelry – Consisting of silver and 18k yellow gold, this line offers a big look (think 10 mm blue topaz, citrine or amethyst rings and pendants) without breaking the bank. $250 to $600
• Diamond Cross or Circle Pendant — Whether covered in diamonds or just a beautifully simple design with a single diamond, there’s a pendant to match your budget and her style. $200 and up
• Dangle Earrings — Designs in silver, gold and white gold can easily be dressed up or worn casually and many styles feature pretty pearls and colored gemstones. $75 and up

Daughter

• Jewelry Box — There are many styles and sizes available in finishes like mahogany, oak and cherry, as well as silver-plated boxes in heart and oval shapes and even the classic ballerina box. $30 to $300
• Birthstone Jewelry — No matter her age, there is adorable jewelry for your precious daughter. Special children’s sizes include crosses, lockets and earrings, and if she’s older there are styles from classic to ornate. $60 and up
• Charms — there is a charm for any activity or interest you can think of, including skis, a blow dryer, pigs, pianos, Christmas trees, communion and birthday cakes. If she doesn’t already have a charm bracelet start one for her because charms make great gifts for birthdays, Easter, graduation, etc. $15 to $100 for silver $100 to $400 for gold

Husband

• Citizen Watch – Eco Drive technology harnesses the power of light and converts it into energy that is stored in a rechargeable battery to run forever, and the Stiletto line is one of the thinnest on the market. $125 to $800
• Northern Front Range Ring – If you live in Northern Colorado, this ring will be quite a hit, especially if your husband likes the outdoors; it’s available in three different styles each depicting mountains like Longs Peak, Mummy Mountain and Horsetooth. $570 to $1150
• William Henry Pen – Many months and even more individual steps go into making these limited edition writing instruments that blend titanium with exotic woods, gemstones, mokume and damascus to create bold designs that include roller ball and ball point converters. $875 to $2000

Father

• Seiko Watch – Neat features like perpetual calendar, which automatically adjusts for odd and even months including leap year, and alarm chronograph that works as a stopwatch and 12-hour alarm are just a few of the cool things he’ll enjoy about these watches. $120 to $800
• William Henry Knives – Taking more than eight months and 800 individual operations to complete, each knife is heirloom-quality and uses exotic materials such as fossil ivories, black lip pearl, opal, wave damascus, superconductor and olive wood. $350 to $2000

Boyfriend

• Citizen Watch — Eco Drive technology harnesses the power of light and converts it into energy that is stored in a rechargeable battery to run forever; combine that with cool features like a stopwatch and military time and you’ve got a great gift. $125 to $800
• Cross Pen — Available in many styles, colors and sizes, these pens can also be personalized with a name or monogram. $45 to $400
• Lorenzo Jewelry – These masculine 18k yellow gold and sterling silver creations, like cuff links, are great for the guy who likes a little bling. $150 to $500

Brother

• Flask – Polished or brushed stainless steel and pewter or leather-wrapped flasks are available in varying sizes and some styles can be personalized with a name or monogram. $40 to $200
• Signet Ring — The best ones will be gold or white gold with his monogram or a family crest. $500 and up
• Citizen Watch – Mix Eco Drive technology, which means the watch never needs a battery, with features like a 43-city world timer, atomic time, digital time or diving depth meter and you have the perfect men’s watch. $125 to $800

Friend

• Book Jewels — These great bookmarks are available in all your favorite colors. $24
• Keychain – There are endless options available in various metals and many have personalized designs like golf clubs, horse shoes and spaces for a monogram. $40 to $400
• Clock – Seiko makes many great designs for the mantle or wall, as well as great travel and alarm clocks in silver, gold and wood finishes. $30 to $400

I love a good gift guide, but I espcially love the gift guides that grace the pages during the holidays!  Here is the cover and a page from this seaon’s Find New York – one of our favorite go-to gift guides – and we were lucky enough to make the cut along with our dear friend. jewelry designer, Yasmineh and our favorite publisher, Assouline – both featured vendors on our site www.GraceLockwood.com!

After I read Lara’s post on yoga mats, I couldn’t help but expand into a yoga inspired gift guide.

Starting with these yoga cookies…

To me the perfect yoga pant. Fitting at the top but loose all the way down the leg.

If you’d prefer to take lessons at home, try out these weekly posted videos by Rodney Yee and Colleen Saidman. It’s $5 a week and purchased in 13 week installments. It seems like a fun gift to give a do-it-yourself possible yogi.

And I’ve got to ask, has anyone tried these yoga classes with their pets?

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/09/fashion/09fitness.html?_r=2&scp=1&sq=doga&st=cse